If You're Happy and You Know It...

As Neil becomes more aware of his circumstances, he seems to be making more efforts on his own to recover what he's lost. For instance, I think he realizes he is a little deficient in the emotion department right now. He wants to be able to laugh at a good joke, and feel some joy when he shoots a basket, but right now it's just not coming naturally. So this evening, when we were playing a little air hockey, he raised his fist in the air when he made a goal. I applauded his gesture and asked him to take it a step further--I wanted some facial expressions. Neil delivered. He tried the big smile. It almost looked sincere. When I asked him to, he added some raised eyebrows. The look was priceless, and I got the feeling he was enjoying it. When we went back to the room, I had him look in the mirror so he could see the effect for himself. I think he was pleased. I know I was. Maybe recognizing and expressing feelings is another thing the brain needs to relearn. I'm thinking I'll add emotion therapy to his schedule next. We'll tickle him, tell funny jokes and sad stories, and teach him to give a Bronx cheer. Any other suggestions for the curriculum?